Missouri Car Accident Laws: What You Need to Know in 2025

1. Missouri Is an At-Fault State

Missouri follows an at-fault system for car accidents, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. The at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers the victim’s medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other losses. Victims can: (Missouri Revised Statutes – Insurance and Liability)

• File a claim with their insurance.
• File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
• File a lawsuit against the responsible party.

2. Comparative Fault in Missouri

Missouri uses a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000. (Missouri Revised Statutes – Comparative Fault)

3. Mandatory Auto Insurance Requirements

Missouri law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury.
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
• $25,000 per accident for property damage.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident.

Failure to carry insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and vehicle registration penalties. (Missouri Department of Revenue – Auto Insurance Requirements)

4. Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

Victims of car accidents in Missouri have a five-year statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit. Property damage claims also have a five-year limit. However, wrongful death claims must be filed within three years. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to compensation. (Missouri Revised Statutes – Statute of Limitations)

5. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Missouri requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, but underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is optional. If a driver hits you without insurance or with insufficient coverage, UM/UIM coverage can help pay for medical expenses and other damages. (Missouri Department of Insurance – Uninsured Motorist Coverage)

7. DUI and Drunk Driving Penalties

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is strictly enforced in Missouri. The legal BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) limit is:

• 0.08% for most drivers.
• 0.04% for commercial drivers.
• 0.02% for drivers under 21.

First-time offenders face fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. Repeat offenses, including mandatory ignition interlock devices (IID), lead to harsher penalties. (Missouri Department of Revenue – DUI Laws)

8. Seat Belt and Child Car Seat Laws

• All drivers and front-seat passengers must wear seat belts.
• Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4’9” must use an appropriate child safety seat or booster.
• Violations can result in fines and increased insurance premiums.

9. Missouri’s Hands-Free Driving Laws

Missouri has implemented stricter laws against distracted driving, particularly texting while driving. While hands-free device use is allowed, drivers under 21 are banned from using handheld devices while driving. (Missouri Department of Transportation – Distracted Driving Laws)

10. What to Do After a Car Accident in Missouri

• Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
• Move to safety but do not leave the scene.
• Exchange information (driver’s license, insurance, contact details).
• Take photos and document the accident scene.
• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
• Report the accident to your insurance provider.
• Consult a Missouri car accident lawyer to protect your rights.